Former Jacksonville Sheriff and current U.S. Representative for Northeast Florida, John Rutherford collapsed in the U.S. Capitol Wednesday evening.
The newly elected congressman representing District 4 had to be wheeled out of the House Chamber on a stretcher just after 6 p.m. while members of the House of Representatives were voting.Kelly Simpson, Rutherford’s chief of staff said:
He did not suffer a heart attack, but he continues to be evaluated by doctors. A further update on the Congressman’s condition will be provided once doctors have finished their evaluation. The Rutherford family appreciates the prayers, thoughts, and support they have received this evening.
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Rep. Neal Dunn from Florida is a surgeon and was also just elected to the House. It was reported he rushed to help Rutherford.
Fellow U.S. Representative Al Lawson (FL-D) said Rutherford was taken to George Washington University Hospital. He said he has already developed a mutual respect for Rutherford and he is praying for him.
Lawson said:During the past few weeks, we have been discussing issues we can work together on for the benefit of our community in Jacksonville. He is a great person to work with. I am a little stunned tonight but I will continue to pray for him for recovery. And whenever I can I will go to the hospital to see him I will be on my way.
The 64-year old Republican worked in law enforcement for 41 years and served as sheriff in Jacksonville, FL before defeating Democrat David Bruderly in November to win the District 4 seat of retiring Republican Rep. Ander Crenshaw.
